HdCamcorder
Latest
Panasonic reveals trio of P2 HD camcorders at NAB
Panasonic's AG-HMC150 HD camcorder is fine and dandy if you're cool with hauling around a couple SDHC cards, but for those with bigger budgets and loftier dreams, the trio of P2 rigs debuting at NAB Show are likely to be entirely more suitable. Starting things up is the VariCam 2700 (model AJ-HPX2700) and VariCam 3700 (model AJ-HPX3700; pictured), which both feature native HD resolutions, five P2 card slots, master-quality 10-bit 4:2:2 AVC-Intra 100 recording, variable frame rates in one-frame increments, HD-SDI outputs and a multi-gamma function including Film-Rec. As for the latter, it steps things up to full 1,920 x 1,080 support while boasting a trio of HD-SDI outs (versus two on the VariCam 2700). Lastly, we've got the 4.2-pound AG-HPX170, which reflects the HMC150 in a variety of ways but utilizes a pair of P2 slots in order to log those high-def captures. Mum's the word on pricing for the Fall-bound family, but do yourself a favor and hit the read link for lots more details on each.[Via Broadcast Newsroom]
Panasonic unveils SDHC-lovin' AG-HMC150 HD camcorder
If you thought the HD camcorder announcements at NAB Show 2008 started and ended with Canon's new duo, you'd be sorely mistaken. Panasonic is launching a new one of its own under the limelight: the Fall-bound AG-HMC150. This handheld rig is the newest member of the AVCCAM family and can capture clips at 1,280 x 720 or 1,440 x 1,080 while utilizing the industry standard MPEG-4 AVC / H.264 compression profile. You'll also find native 16:9 1 / 3-inch 3CCD imagers, a digital signal processor with 14-bit A / D conversion and 19-bit processing, 13x Leica Dicomar zoom lens, optical image stabilization and the ability to store footage on SD / SDHC flash cards. Sure, $4,500 is still a lot of coin, but it's certainly within the realm of reason for many prosumers out there.
AgfaPhoto's DV-5000Z SDHC camcorder shoots 720p
Though not nearly as sexy (or well-spec'd, for that matter) as Sony's recently-unveiled HDR-TG1, AgfaPhoto's DV-5000Z still manages to hold its own on paper. Measuring in at 4.7- x 2.75-inches (12- x 7-centimeters) and weighing just over 7-ounces (200-grams), this HD camcorder features a 5-megapixel Micron CMOS sensor, 2.5-inch flip-out LCD, 3x optical zoom and an SD / SDHC slot to store everything on. As for shooting capabilities, it'll capture clips at 1,280 x 720 (using H.264 compression) and snag 16-bit stereo sound all the while. You'll also find USB connectivity, a rechargeable Li-ion and video out, natch. Unfortunately, there's no mention of this €249 ($393) device ever coming Stateside, but it'll be ready to roll in Russia later this month. %Gallery-20275%
Sony's $900 HDR-TG1: world's smallest 1080i camcorder
We'll go ahead and let those other guys battle it out for the "world's smallest" camcorder title -- meanwhile, Sony's just cranked out the one to really pay attention to. The HDR-TG1 Handycam checks in at just 1.3- x 4.7- x 2.5-inches and weighs ten ounces, all while boasting the ability to capture those oh-so-precious vacation moments and unannounced streaking episodes in 1080p 1080i. Aside from that, it'll snag stills at 4-megapixels and holds everything on MS Pro Duo / Pro Duo Mark2 cards, while the 2.7-inch touchscreen keeps your eyes glued to the action. Furthermore, you'll find a 10x Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar optical zoom lens, BIONZ processing engine, 5.1 Dolby Digital audio recording and a bundled 4GB Pro Duo Mark2 card for $900. Get ready -- this one's comin' at you next month.[Via AkihabaraNews] %Gallery-19717%
Video: Sony's $900 HDR-TG1 -- world's smallest 1080i camcorder
We'll go ahead and let those other guys battle it out for the "world's smallest" camcorder title -- meanwhile, Sony's just cranked out the one to really pay attention to. The HDR-TG1 Handycam checks in at just 1.3- x 4.7- x 2.5-inches and weighs ten ounces, all while boasting the ability to capture those oh-so-precious vacation moments and unannounced streaking episodes in 1080p 1080i. Aside from that, it'll snag stills at 4-megapixels and holds everything on MS Pro Duo / Pro Duo Mark2 cards, while the 2.7-inch touchscreen keeps your eyes glued to the action. Furthermore, you'll find a 10x Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar optical zoom lens, BIONZ processing engine, 5.1 Dolby Digital audio recording and a bundled 4GB Pro Duo Mark2 card for $900. Get ready -- this one's comin' at you next month. Video of Japanese model after the break.Update: Will be called the HD TG3E in Europe. %Gallery-19716% [Via AkihabaraNews]
Vivitar's pocket-friendly DVR565HD camcorder does high-definition
Regrettably, there's not a whole lot of deets on Vivitar's latest camcorder just yet, but we do know that this ultra-compact unit will log clips in beautiful 720p. The DVR565HD is said to capture in H.264 / MPEG-4 at 30fps, while it can pipe that video back out in 1080i via the HDMI output. Also of note, it should be available in black and silver motifs, and while the 3-inch flip-out LCD monitor is a nice touch, the apparent inability for it to accept anything more capacious than a 4GB SD card is somewhat disappointing. Then again, it is rocking the Vivitar logo, and if history tells any story whatsoever, we'd bet this one comes in well under most budgets.[Via Slashgear]
Sony's HDR-HC9 camcorder gets reviewed
Considering that Sony's HDR-HC7 was mentioned earlier this year as one of the best consumer HD camcorders for the money, we figured it prudent to pass along an in-depth review of its successor, the HDR-HC9. Originally announced with a plethora of siblings at CES, this HDV camcorder is nearly identical to the unit it replaces, but that's hardly a knock. Reviewers praised the incredibly functional "Easy mode" for those looking to just dip their toes in, and the all black motif was also enjoyed. Still, critics found Canon's HV30 to be superior in terms of overall video quality, and they also griped that the $1,099 price tag was a touch too expensive for what you get. Still, those eying this here model should definitely take a chunk of their day and browse the full review linked below -- there's a whole lot more where this came from.
JVC's Everio GZ-HD5 / GZ-HD6 HD camcorders do 1080i with ease
Mmm, you can almost smell all those pixels from your cubical chair, now can't you? JVC's getting our minds in a tizzy today with two new HD camcorders that are compact for carrying and big on resolution. Both the GZ-HD5 (available in black and silver) and the GZ-HD6 (just silver) each capture video at 1,920 x 1,080 and feature Genessa technology, HDMI, component, i.LINK and mini-USB connectors, an SDHC slot and audio in / out to boot. The only major difference between the two is the internal hard drive: with the HD5, you'll get 60GB to store all sorts of antics on, while you can double that with the extra capacious HD6. As predicted, each device is touting that elusive open offer price tag for now, but considering that we've only a fortnight before they hit the streets, we suppose we'll know soon enough.[Via Impress]
Samsung cranks out 1080p, flash camcorders
Not exactly in the market for an LCD HDTV, HTIB, or PDP? Or maybe you're just not concerning yourself with all those fancy acronyms. Whatever the case may be, Samsung is wrapping up its CES outpouring with four new camcorders, and we'll get things started by checking out the Full HD SC-HMX20C: Captures video in progressive Full HD 1080p, selectable for 30fps or 60fps HDMI-CEC (Anynet+), camcorder control using a Samsung HDTV remote 8GB of internal flash memory; SDHC / MMC+ expansion slot1 1/8-inch 6.4-megapixel CMOS sensor 10x optical zoom 300fps slow-motion recording mode for up to 10 seconds 4-megapixel still image capture 2.7-inch wide LCD touchscreen display iCheck button for easy access to memory / battery levels USB 2.0 and PictBridge connections Component, S-Video and composite outputs For the rest of the foursome, click on through.
DXG delivers DXG-566V HD camcorder for $149
DXG is no stranger to bottom-end, über-cheap kit, and while the vast majority of its products are simply laughable, this one may just be cheap enough to respect -- maybe. The all new DXG-566V HD, set to debut officially at CES, sets a new bar for HD camcorders, as this bugger rings up at a mere $149. You heard right, for under two bills you can snag a craptastically designed handheld camcorder with a 5-megapixel sensor, a 3-inch flip-out LCD monitor, 32MB of onboard memory, an SD expansion slot and the ability to capture video at 1,280 x 720. 'Course, you better pack along quite a few SD cards (there's no SDHC support to speak of) if you're headed to a graduation or the like, but hey, what else did you really expect for $149? Click on through for one more look.
Sanyo's Xacti VPC-HD1000 camcorder gets reviewed
Sanyo's line of Xacti camcorders have traditionally looked mighty fine on paper, but for one reason or another, expectations haven't exactly been met on the previous iterations. The firm's latest pistol-grip device yet again looked superb at a glance, but TrustedReviews found that the VPC-HD1000 still wasn't able to live up to its claims. On the upside, reviewers found the design to be "much improved," and the Full HD recording abilities were drooled over as well. Still, the crew couldn't help but be disappointed in the paltry four-megapixel CMOS sensor, and while it did perform "better than its predecessors" as a camcorder, the optical zoom was tagged as "slow," colors seemed slightly oversaturated and you'll still need "plenty of light" in order to get halfway decent results. Furthermore, it was noted that quick changes in scenery caused noticeable pixilation, and shooting in low-light introduced "a lot" of grain. Overall, the HD1000 wasn't totally slammed nor lifted up on a pedestal, but we'd probably hold off on this unless you're cool with a "jack of two trades, but master of neither."
Hitachi's DZ-BD7HA Blu-ray / 30GB HDD hybrid camcorder reviewed
We've come to expect flaws in gizmos these days, particularly in first generation products, but judging by CamcorderInfo's review of Hitachi's "world's first Blu-ray camcorder," this thing should be sent straight back to R&D. Truth be told, it's not that often that we see a review this harsh, but we understand the need to be particularly critical when pondering a $1,600 purchase. Nevertheless, the DZ-BD7HA was essentially thrashed from top to bottom save for its stylish design and satisfactory outdoor shooting performance. Testing revealed abysmal results when it was used in even the brightest of low-light situations, and the lackluster manual controls, omitted optical image stabilization (it opts for electronic IS) and a dreadful auto response system pretty much eliminated any shot at redemption. Honestly, repeatedly hearing about its "terrible image quality" throughout the review would be enough to scare away most, but if you just can't believe things are that bad, hit the read link and judge for yourself.
Panasonic offers up 32GB P2 memory card
It's been a short while since we've seen any news on the P2 HD front, but Panasonic is hoping to extract a few more hundies from those sold on the format by introducing a 32GB P2 card. The device, labeled AJ-P2C032RG, can be installed in sets of five into the AJ-HPX3000 and HPX2000 P2 HD camcorders for recording "up to 2.5 hours (over 3 hours in 24p) of footage in AVC-Intra 100 or DVCPRO HD and 5 hours (over 6.5 hours in 24p) in AVC-Intra 50 or DVCPRO 50." As you'd probably expect, this sucka won't run you cheap, as it's expected to demand a staggering $1,650 when it hits in November.[Via AkihabaraNews]
Hands-on with the JVC GZ-HD3 camcorder
We've gotten our hands all over the new JVC GZ-HD3 1080i camcorder, and we thought we'd share the good fortune with you. If you'll recall, the new GZ-HD7 kid-brother rocks a 60GB internal hard drive, allowing for something like five hours of 1440 x 1080, 30Mbps recordings. The camera is light and small for the feature set it packs (although it gets some stiff, stiff competition from the new Sanyo HD-1000), and the design is pretty much the plain-jane basics you've come to expect from JVC. Check the gallery and see for yourself.%Gallery-6747%
Hands-on with Sanyo's Xacti DMX-HD1000, the world's smallest 1080i camcorder
Ever wanted a full, 1080i camcorder that looked just like the Super-8 your dad used to shoot sun-soaked home movies with back in the 1970s? Well, you're in luck, because Sanyo seems to be sharing your nostalgic vibes this year, particularly in the case of the Xacti DMX-HD1000, the world's tiniest, full-HD video camera. We got our chance to manhandle this minuscule (yet powerful) camcorder at IFA today and honestly, it's like holding a gun... a memory gun. Deep, right? Take a look at the totally ill photo gallery and let us know your thoughts on the matter.%Gallery-6690%
JVC showcases HD Everio GZ-HD3 HDD / SDHC camcorder
JVC hasn't shown off any of its fancy Everio camcorders in quite awhile, but it's making a noticeable return with the HDD / SDHC-compatible GZ-HD3. This handheld camcorder does it up right with a built-in 60GB hard drive, MPEG-2 HD recording (though not Full HD, reportedly), and the ability to capture onto SD / SDHC flash cards. Unfortunately, not a whole lot of details beyond that are readily available, but while you wait patiently for a release date and price, feel free to click on for a few more glamor shots.
Aiptek intros sub-$300 "GO-HD" 720p camcorder
Aiptek's cameras may not always be known for their quality, but they do usually manage to at least keep things fairly inexpensive, a trait that continues with the company's new "GO-HD" camcorder. As you've no doubt surmised, the camera will let you capture HD video (720p, specifically), with the H.264 codec used to keep file sizes down. According to Aiptek, that should work out to about 4 hours of video on an 8GB SDHC card (not included). It'll also apparently let you take 5 megapixel still images, with a 3x optical zoom, and a 2.4-inch LCD at your disposal. Of course, those specs may not necessarily translate to the best of results, but if you want to try your luck, it looks like you can grab one now from your choice of retailers for $280.
Canon's PowerShot TX1 camera / HD camcorder gets reviewed
You know how it goes, first comes the announcement, then comes the pr0n, and now comes the critiquing. Canon's first endeavor into the hybrid still camera / HD camcorder realm looked great at first glance, but after you peered beyond the admirable size, manageable price, and HD capabilities, how does this thing really stack up? DCRP got real with the TX1, and while the design was smiled upon, it was still oddly deemed "a bit too small," as reviewers claimed that the "controls were tiny, cluttered, and poorly placed," leading to a good bit of frustration when it came to actually operating the device. Still, the crew did praise the flip-out LCD, impressive optical image stabilization system, and SDHC support, but mirrored just about everyone's gripes when they complained about the Motion JPEG format choice. Put simply, "Canon created a camera that's big on style and features, but lacking in terms of ergonomics, flash strength, movie recording times, and battery life." All in all, we fully expect the next iteration of the TX1 to be a serious contender, but the current rendition just seems to fall a bit short in the areas that matter most.[Via DigitalMediaThoughts]
Another Panasonic AVCHD 1080i camcorder
CEATEC is pumpin' out the HD goods fast and furious now. Here's the latest AVCHD camcorder prototype from Panasonic. Although clearly different from the first Panny AVCHD recorder we peeped last week, it shares much the same specs including 3CCDs capable of capturing video at 1080i to SD/SDHC cards. This fully functional prototype, however, brings a Leica DICOMAR lens with 12x optical zoom, image processing LSI, and HDMI out. No word on pricing or ship date but hey, flaunt 'em if you gotta 'em Panny. More snaps after the break.
JVC's 3CCD Everio HD camcorder loosed at CEATEC
Well hello Mr. high-definition Everio, nice to finally see you in the fo' realz. Oh sure, it's still a prototype but at least it's a working prototype instead of just marketing images. Even though it's on display right now at CEATEC in Japan, JVC is playing coy with important details like disk capacity and format those 3 CCDs will record to. Still, it's good to see that FUJINON lens glinting under the tradeshow lighting don't you think? Oh hey, is that an HDMI jack... sure is. A few more snaps after the break courtesy of Impress.
